Do I Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident? Legal Advice, Steps, and Claim Tips

Q: How much does a car accident lawyer cost?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. The fee is usually a percentage of your settlement or verdict, and case costs may be deducted separately. Initial evaluations are typically free, and you owe nothing if there is no recovery.

Q: What should I not say to an insurance company after an accident?

Do not admit fault, speculate about injuries, give a recorded statement without legal advice, sign broad medical releases, or accept quick settlements before treatment is complete. Share only basic facts like date, location, and vehicles involved, and consider directing adjusters to your attorney.

By Steve Levine

Attorney providing free legal consultation to car accident victim

Unsplash | Updated: June 16, 2025

Claim Form Deadline: Pending

Estimated Payout: Varies

I was in a Car Accident - Should I Get a Lawyer?

It really depends on your case, and every accident is different. If your expenses are fully covered after an accident, an attorney may not be necessary. However, insurance companies often aim to pay as little as possible, so consulting a lawyer, often with free case evaluations, can help you determine if legal action is worthwhile.

Attorneys will help you handle paperwork, negotiations, and medical claims, but they may take a portion of your settlement. If you prefer to maximize your payout and don't mind handling some work yourself, you might manage without one if you aren't hurt enough to be able to handle the hassle of dealing with insurance companies, paperwork, and negotiations.

If the other driver's insurance is uncooperative, a lawyer can help secure a better settlement, especially in cases of severe damage, injuries, or a drunk driver. Continuing medical care is crucial, as your claim should reflect the full impact of the accident.

To qualify for legal help, you'll typically need to provide details about the accident date, type, injuries, surgeries, lost wages from having to miss work or being laid off, and whether you already have representation.

You can contact law firms here, which are teaming up to evaluate personal injury claims from anyone who has been involved in car or truck accidents.

Free Case Evaluation

What to Do After a Car Accident

1. Check for Injuries & Call 911: Prioritize safety and get medical help if needed.
2. Move to Safety: If possible, move vehicles out of traffic and turn on hazard lights.
3. Call the Police: Get an official accident report for insurance and legal purposes.
4. Exchange Information: Swap contact, insurance, and vehicle details with other drivers.
5. Document the Scene: Take photos of damage, license plates, and surroundings.
6. Gather Witness Info: Collect contact details from anyone who saw the accident.
7. Notify Your Insurance: Report the accident but avoid admitting fault.
8. Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries appear later; keep records of all treatments.
9. Consider Legal Advice: A lawyer may help if there are disputes, injuries, or high costs.

What To Do If You're In a Motor Vehicle Accident?

No one ever thinks that they will be the one to get involved in a motor vehicle accident when they get in their car, truck, or motorcycle. But the reality is that you can't always control what other motorists do while you're on the road with them. It can be very difficult to know what to do in the intense shock and aftermath of an auto accident. However, having a plan if something unfortunately happens on the road can help you know what to do if you ever end up in an accident.

When should I hire a lawyer after a car accident?

Hire a lawyer if there are injuries, fault is disputed, the insurer is uncooperative, there is a drunk or uninsured driver, a commercial vehicle is involved, or your medical care and lost wages are ongoing. A free consultation can help you understand your options and the deadlines that apply in your state. If in doubt, speak with an attorney early. Free Case EvaluationRequest a free case evaluation.

How much does a car accident lawyer cost?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee. You pay nothing upfront. The fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict, and case costs may be deducted separately. Initial case evaluations are typically free, and you owe nothing if there is no recovery. Ask any firm to explain fees and costs in writing before you sign.

What should I not say to an insurance company after an accident?

Do not admit fault, guess about your injuries, provide a recorded statement without legal advice, sign broad medical releases, or accept a quick settlement before your treatment plan is clear. Share only basic facts like date, location, and vehicles involved, and keep copies of everything you send. Consider directing adjusters to your attorney. Get a free case review.

Never Leave the Scene of an Accident!

Call 911 and wait for emergency services to arrive. It is best to have the police fill out a report of what occurred while it is fresh in your memory, and if there are any other eyewitnesses at the time of the accident, such as other passengers. Answer their questions honestly and to the best of your ability and immediate recollection.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

It is possible to only feel the effects of an injury sustained from a motor accident a day or two after the incident. However, it is best to get checked out right away for the best possible medical outcome. If you wait too long before seeking treatment, the other parties involved in the accident and their insurance company may try to claim that the delay means you were not actually hurt.

For non-emergency care it may take awhile to get an appointment, further adding to delays in getting medical treatment. Do not wait until pain you feel is intolerable. Seek medical attention immediately after a motor accident!

Report the Motor Accident to Your Insurance Company, But...

...do not provide any statements or sign anything from your insurance company. Additionally, do not cash any checks or give the insurance company permission to access your personal medical records, or allow them to speak to your health care providers.

Talk to Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers

An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you and assist you to maximize your chances of recovering any losses you suffered as a result of a motor accident. Firms such as Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys focus on helping accident victims pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and long-term recovery needs. For instance, accidents involving tractor trailers, or similar trucks can be very complex cases and should be handled by someone with expertise in this area.

It is possible to potentially win financial damages such as past and future medical bills, lost potential income from earnings, and of course damage to your vehicle and repairs. You may also be compensated for non-economic damages such as psychological pain and suffering. The actual compensation you can receive depends on the specific details of their case.

If you have been involved in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident within the last two years go here to file a claim and reach out to an experienced, local personal injury lawyer: